1extending or moving from one place to another without changing direction or stopping:there was no direct flight that day Astronomy &
Astrology (of apparent planetary motion) proceeding from west to east in accord with actual motion.
2without intervening factors or intermediaries:the complications are a direct result of bacteria spreading I had no direct contact with Mr Clark (of light or heat) proceeding from a source without being reflected or blocked:ferns like a bright position out of direct sunlight (of genealogy) proceeding in continuous succession from parent to child:a direct descendant of Edward III (of a quotation) taken from someone’s words without being changed. (of taxation) levied on income or profits rather than on goods or services. complete (used for emphasis):attitudes which were in direct contrast to the confrontational perspectives of the past
3(of a person or their behaviour) going straight to the point; frank:he is very direct and honest (of evidence or proof) bearing immediately and unambiguously upon the facts at issue:there is no direct evidence that officials accepted bribes
4perpendicular to a surface; not oblique:a direct butt joint between surfaces of steel
with no one or nothing in between:they seem reluctant to deal with me direct by a straight route or without breaking a journey:Austrian Airlines are flying direct to Innsbruck again
1control the operations of; manage or govern:an economic elite directed the nation’s affairs supervise and control (a film, play, or other production, or the actors in it): the film is directed by Sir Richard Attenborough train and conduct (a group of musicians).
2 [with object and adverbial of direction] aim (something) in a particular direction or at a particular person:heating ducts to direct warm air to rear-seat passengers his smile was directed at Lois tell or show (someone) how to get somewhere:can you direct me to the railway station, please? address or give instructions for the delivery of (a letter or parcel): put them all in one packet, and direct them to me focus (one’s thoughts) on or address (one’s efforts) towards something. (
direct something at/to)
address a comment to or aim a criticism at:his criticism was directed at the wastage of ammunition I suggest that he direct his remarks to the council (
direct something at)
target a product or advertisement specifically at (someone):the book is directed at the younger reader archaic guide or advise in a course or decision:the conscience of the credulous prince was directed by saints and bishops
3 [with object and infinitive] give (someone) an official order or authoritative instruction:the judge directed him to perform community service [with clause]:he directed that no picture from his collection could be sold
